Questions and Answers
Taurus Wiper Problems
Q. Vincent, I have a Ford Taurus with wipers that "park" in the up position when turned off. I've been told that it's the wiper motor that needs replacement, but the turn signal lever seems to trigger "phantom sweeps". Can you help me determine whether it's the wiper switch or the motor?
Here's the car info:
1993 Ford Taurus GL
3.0 liter V-6
Automatic transmission
Mileage 130,000Thanks.
A. Here's the three tests you need to do to check the wiper module and switch. If both check out as good, replace the motor.
E1 - Check For Wire Continuity
- Turn wiper switch to Off position.
- Disconnect connector from wiper motor.
- Check for continuity between circuits 28 (BK/PK) and 56 (DB/O).
- Is there continuity?
YES -- Perform motor parking test.
NO -- Go to E2.
E2 - Check For Wiper Control Module Continuity
- Turn ignition to Off.
- Disconnect connector from wiper control module.
- Measure continuity between Pins 6 and 8 of wiper control module.
- Is there continuity?
YES -- Check for:
- Unseated connectors.
- open circuit between wiper control module and wiper motor.
Service as required.
NO -- Go to E3.
E3 - Check Wiper Switch Functionality
- Turn wiper switch to Off position.
- Measure resistance between circuits 589 (O) and 993 (BR/W).
- Is resistance between 45k ohms and 50k ohms?
YES -- Replace wiper control module.
NO -- Check for:
- Unseated wiper switch connector.
- open circuit (589 (O) or 993 (BR/W)).
- Damaged wiper switch.
Service as required.
Additional Information provided courtesy of ALLDATA
